Downey, CA vs Modesto, CA

The cost of living difference between Downey, CA and Modesto, CA is dramatic. Modesto is 31.4% cheaper than Downey, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Downey has a cost index of 157 while Modesto sits at 120, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Downey is $1,892/month compared to $1,609/month in Modesto — a 18% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Modesto is more affordable at $415,600 median vs $728,500.

Median household income in Downey is $87,400 compared to $77,899 in Modesto (+12.2%). Downey does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Downey spend roughly 26% of their income on rent, more than the 24.8% in Modesto.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (64.9°F vs 63.1°F). Modesto receives more rainfall at 12.3" per year compared to 12" in Downey.